Woman found in trunk of car remembered by family
OXFORD – Family members of Maddilyn Burgess are remembering her as a loving woman with an infectious smile who held a passion for nature, inspirational quotes and her family.
“Maddilyn is rockin' the heavens above, free from all earthly pain and sorrow,” the 28-year-old’s family wrote in her obituary. “She would want to be remembered for the beautiful person that she was, and have her life celebrated without guilt, remorse or anger.”
Ms. Burgess’ body was found in the trunk of a car stopped by police in Gardiner, Maine, on Aug. 9. The driver of the car, Gyrth Rutan of Sturbridge, died after shooting himself immediately upon being pulled over, police have said.
Maddilyn Rose Burgess, who went by Maddy, grew up in Oxford, family said. She graduated from Medfield High School in 2008 and received an associate degree in medical assisting from Salter College.
Family said Ms. Burgess loved long walks and appreciated the rain, the stars and especially the ocean.
“She loved to read, found deep meaning in the lyrics of her favorite songs, and enjoyed keeping a journal of quotes and mantras that inspired her,” they wrote. “Her silly dance moves brought joy to many and she was often a source of encouragement to others with her sweet, genuine soul and infectious smile that lit up an entire room.
“Although her spirit rests peacefully with the Father above, Maddilyn will always remain our precious daughter, devoted sister, loving granddaughter, cherished niece and forever friend.”
Ms. Burgess is survived by many area family members, including her parents and several siblings, family wrote. According to the obituary, a fund has been set up in her name – The Maddilyn Rose Memorial Fund for Battered Women at Daybreak – at the YWCA of Central Massachusetts.
Authorities have said that Ms. Burgess died from blunt force trauma and described the deaths as murder-suicide. They have not detailed her relationship to Mr. Rutan or released specific information about how or where she may have been killed.
Police on Aug. 10 searched Mr. Rutan's residence at 5 Fairview Park Road, Apt. 12, Sturbridge, and labeled it a crime scene. A spoksesman for Worcester District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. said no additional information was available Thursday.
Ms. Burgess’ obituary says she died Aug. 9, which is the same day Mr. Rutan was stopped by police.
Calling hours will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the memorial fund, in care of Hometown Bank, 31 Sutton Ave., Oxford, MA 01540.